Johnson and Johnson launches Listerine Zero mouthwash

Johnson and Johnson has released Listerine Zero, an alcohol-free formulation of its Listerine mouthwash range.

The new product has been optimised to provide a less intense flavour, with 70 percent of participants in a consumer test stating that they prefer the milder taste of Listerine Zero to standard Listerine, reports Dentistry.co.uk.

Despite its adjusted flavour, the mouthwash retains the four essential oils common to the Listerine range – menthol, thymol, methyl salicylate and eucalyptol – as well as 220ppm fluoride to provide enamel protection.

It has also been shown to kill up to 99 percent of plaque bacteria in vitro, which is more than other alcohol-free daily-use mouthwashes on the market.

According to the manufacturer, the addition of Listerine Zero to its product range will allow dental professionals to offer an extra option to meet the individual needs of patients.

Last month, Johnson and Johnson reported a 3.5 percent year-on-year increase in sales in the first quarter of 2011, driven in part by strong international oral care product sales.